Police and Crime Commissioner Sir Clive Loader has given his backing to a support service for male victims of sexual abuse.

First Step offers a free and confidential service to male survivors of rape and sexual abuse living in Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland who are over the age of 13.

Sir Clive visited co-ordinator Cas Beckett at the First Step offices located within Victim Support in Bishop Street, Leicester, to discuss how the service is making a difference to the lives of local people.

Promoting First Step and raising awareness of male abuse support services contributes to priority number six in Sir Clive’s Police and Crime Plan - to ensure a positive outcome from victims and witnesses of serious sexual offences.

Sir Clive said: “No one should have to suffer in silence. First Step is a valuable confidential service which enables male survivors of abuse to begin their journey toward a better understanding of their thoughts and feelings. I would urge anyone who has been subject to abuse to seek support.”

Cas Beckett said: “We work closely with male victims of abuse, or their partners and supporters, to find a way forward through counselling and support. Having someone to talk to, who understands what they may be feeling, makes all the difference to someone who has experienced abuse.”

People can contact First Step on 07581 568144 or 0116 254 8535, or by text on 07950 080321.

First Step is open for face to face counselling appointments on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 9am to 8pm and Thursdays from 9am to 4pm.

The office has a 24 hour answerphone, where callers can leave their name and number for a return call.